My Expertise

Clarise Hicks

PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY

Multitalented creative professional with 15+ years of experience across entertainment, digital media, and live performance. Founder of four entertainment-rooted businesses, including Psalms In Service, a faith-based platform promoting clean, purpose-driven content. Skilled in vocal performance, DJ/KJ hosting, photography, videography, songwriting, spoken word, and event production. Passionate about empowering creatives, serving communities, and building immersive experiences through the arts.

AREAS OF EXPERTISE

• Vocal Performance & Free Prophetic Worship
• DJ/KJ Hosting (Live & Virtual Events)
• Photography & Videography
• Graphic Design & Branding
• Songwriting & Spoken Word
• Artist Development & Coaching
• Event Management & Community Engagement
• Faith-Based Creative Direction

ENTERTAINMENT & ENTREPRENEURIAL EXPERIENCE

Founder & Creative Director
Psalms In Service, LLC – Newport News, VA
2019 – Present

• Built a multi-platform entertainment company centered on clean, purpose-driven storytelling.
• Curate shows and content for emerging artists, entrepreneurs, and storytellers in music, comedy, and spoken word.
• Offer DJ/KJ hosting, media production, event curation, and talent development services.
• Led major productions such as For the Love of Funny and Queen Enhancement Retreat.

DJ & Karaoke Host (KJ)
Various Events & Community Functions
2016 – Present

• Provide clean, vibrant entertainment through DJ and karaoke services.
• Create personalized playlists and atmospheres that uplift audiences and enhance events.
• Served weddings, church events, expos, youth rallies, and private parties.

Founder & CEO – EPIC 434
Lynchburg, VA | April 2013 – April 2014

• Launched a creative platform focused on talent development and small business collaboration.
• Hosted performances, showcases, and entrepreneur-led events.
• Featured twice on local television and spotlighted on a local radio station for positive community impact.

Founder – Bully Prevention Through the Arts Program
April 2019

• Designed and led a school-based music and arts program as therapeutic intervention for bullying.
• Facilitated workshops using music, spoken word, and visual arts to promote healing and self-expression.
• Partnered with educators, families, and community leaders to create a safe creative space for youth.

Founder & Host – Sisters Tea 4 the Soul
Lynchburg, VA | February 2008 – 2013

• Created a series of community empowerment teas promoting restoration, inspiration, and unity.
• Hosted guest speakers, faith-based performers, and highlighted local women-owned businesses.
• Expanded to include male participants, breaking social barriers across race, income, and age.
• Featured in local newspapers for building bridges within the community through hospitality and conversation.

Recording Artist & Songwriter
Independent Projects – Nationwide
2000 – Present

• Released original worship album Free Prophetic Worship (2008).
• Reached #1 on local internet radio charts with original songs “Is It the Way” and “To See You.”
• Write, compose, and perform original worship music that blends live prophetic flow with soulful instrumentation.

Photographer & Videographer
Clarise Hicks Photography – Lynchburg & Newport News, VA
2005 – Present

• Specialize in wedding, portrait, and community event photography.
• Produce promotional videos, social media content, and highlight reels for nonprofits and faith-based clients.

EDUCATION & TRAINING

[Sanford Brown College]
[Bachelors of Fine Arts in Digital Media Production] – [2013]

Musical Background & Development

• Choir singer since infancy (Sunbeam Choir)
• Violin and Cello: Achieved 4th chair ranking at regional competitions
• Self-trained ear musician with spiritual discernment and prophetic flow

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

• Habitat for Humanity – Ribbon Cutting Performer
• Local Pageants – Creative Participant & Entertainer
• Mentor & Coach – Young women and aspiring creatives

TOOLS & TECHNICAL SKILLS

• Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Lightroom, Premiere Pro)
• Final Cut Pro, Canva, Pro Tools
• Serato DJ, Virtual DJ Software
• WordPress, Wix, Squarespace
• Nikon, Canon DSLR/Mirrorless Camera Systems

Professional Goals

🎯 1. Expand My Creative Reach

Grow my digital and physical presence as a multimedia artist and host, sharing my gifts with broader audiences across platforms, cities, and communities.

🎯 2. Build a Signature Event Series

Establish ongoing, faith-based, family-friendly events such as showcases, karaoke nights, and live concerts that feature diverse talent and encourage community engagement.

🎯 3. Grow Psalms In Service into a Household Brand

Develop Psalms In Service into a nationally recognized platform for clean, uplifting entertainment, empowering artists and entrepreneurs through mentorship, media, and stage opportunities.

🎯 4. Release New Music & Spoken Word Projects

Record and release new Free Prophetic Worship projects, spoken word pieces, and collaborative works that inspire healing, hope, and restoration.

🎯 5. Serve as a Creative Mentor & Coach

Guide aspiring artists, singers, and creatives—especially women of faith—through workshops, one-on-one coaching, and digital resources that help them find and own their voice.

🎯 6. Collaborate with Nonprofits & Global Missions

Partner with nonprofit organizations and global ministries to bring the arts to underserved communities, combining creativity with outreach and service.

🎯 7. Launch a Branded Product Line

Design a line of branded merchandise or creative tools (journals, devotionals, apparel, templates, etc.) that reflect my message, style, and purpose-driven mission.